International Journal of Business and Management Study
Author(s) : CHRISTINE BLECH, JOACHIM FUNKE
Based on previous work, we present a stage model for problem solving with conflicting goals (polytelic problem solving). That model predicts (a) a specific stage sequence, (b) specific strategic reactions due to failures, and (c) conditions for rumination. Tests of the model predictions are based on categorized think-aloud protocols. N = 20 subjects worked on a complex ecological microworld that required a series of 20 interdependent decisions with either goal independence or goal conflict. Qualitative results from think-aloud protocols and from decision times show (a) that peak episodes can be identified where failures happen, (b) that failure experiences during problem-solving and rumination occur in parallel, and (c) that adaptive problem solving leads to a more careful style of intervention after the first failure. The discussion addresses issues of model building and model testing as well as the connection between goal conflicts and complex problems.